Barry’s: Ex-mayor fears amusements could be knocked down for apartments

Barry’s has been on the market since being put up for sale by the Trufelli family in November, although a price tag has never been revealed.

There were fears it could be knocked down to make way for apartments after the council voted against listing the complex last month.

Pauline Armitage, a former mayor of Coleraine and MLA for East Londonderry, said she believes the council could step in to save the iconic amusement park, despite its near £70m debt.

She said: “People go to Portrush to go to Barry’s. It is a very big attraction there. I would hate it to go into somebody’s hands and then four years later it’s knocked down and we’re landed with apartments because Barry’s is a big draw.

“If it cost millions to buy Barry’s you would have to work out if it’s cost effective to buy it and knock it down. That would be a backward step for Portrush.

“Rather than lose Barry’s I think the council should buy it.

“I think it has proved itself because the Trufellis have been running it for nearly 100 years and it has made them a comfortable living.”

Ms Armitage said that the council should get rid of assets that aren’t making money and invest in Barry’s.

“The council are going to get rid of Waterworld now as that wasn’t really a profit-making exercise,” she said.

“They had the youth centre out of the town slightly and that would be worth money as there’s land with it. 

“With the council operating Barry’s maybe there could be longer opening hours and extend the amount of time it is open.

“Buying Barry’s would be a costly exercise but I think it’s important long-term and it’s a tourist attraction that is paying so it should be maintained.”

Causeway Coast and Glens Council did not respond to a request for comment.